Oskrzelowa

Os skrzelowa is a Polish adjective form related to the bronchial or bronchus. In medical terminology it appears in phrases describing structures and processes associated with the bronchial tree, such as tętnica oskrzelowa (bronchial artery), żyła oskrzelowa (bronchial vein) and nerw oskrzelowy (bronchial nerve). The term is used to distinguish bronchial elements from the pulmonary circulation, which is primarily responsible for gas exchange.

Anatomy and function

Bronchial arteries provide oxygenated blood to the walls of the bronchi, surrounding airways, and supporting tissues of the lungs. They typically originate from the thoracic aorta or intercostal arteries and may form anastomoses with branches of the pulmonary circulation near the lung hilum. Bronchial veins drain the bronchial circulation into the azygos or hemiazygos venous system, and in some areas may drain into the pulmonary veins. The bronchial circulation is part of the systemic circulation and functions to nourish the airways and other structures not directly involved in gas exchange.

Nerves and innervation

Nerwy oskrzelowe (bronchial nerves) contain autonomic fibers from the vagus nerve and sympathetic trunks. They regulate glandular secretions and bronchomotor tone, influencing airway resistance and mucus production. This innervation plays a role in normal airway functioning and in reflex responses to irritants.

Clinical relevance

Pathological changes in bronchial circulation can contribute to conditions such as hemoptysis, where bronchial arteries bleed into the airways. Procedures like bronchial artery embolization are used to control heavy bleeding. The bronchial system is also considered in the context of chronic inflammatory diseases and tumors that involve the airways and surrounding tissues.